Take Steps to Avoid Injury or Death While Walking

We rarely are more vulnerable than when walking in urban areas, crossing busy streets and negotiating traffic. And we all are pedestrians from time to time, so it's important to pay attention to what is going on around us. Nearly 6,000 pedestrians were struck and killed by motor vehicles in 2017, with an estimated 7,450 pedestrian deaths (traffic and non-traffic) according to Injury Facts.

All Ages Are Vulnerable

According to Injury Facts, in 2017, more than 16% of all traffic deaths were pedestrians. Every age group is vulnerable, though 10- to 14-year-olds and 50- to 69-year-olds have 20% or more pedestrian deaths as a percentage of all traffic fatalities.

Whenever possible, walk on the sidewalk; if no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic

Follow the rules of the road, obeying all traffic signs and signals

Cross streets at crosswalks

If no crosswalk is available and your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic

Look left, right and left again before crossing the street, making eye contact with drivers of oncoming vehicles to make sure they see you

Stay alert – avoid cell phone use and wearing earbuds

Avoid alcohol and drug impairment when walking

Wear bright and/or reflective clothing, and use a flashlight at night

Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots

Children younger than 10 should cross the street with an adult

Head Up, Phone Down

Distracted walking incidents are on the rise, and everyone with a cell phone is at risk. We are losing focus on our surroundings and putting our safety at risk. The solution: Stop using phones while walking, and not just in crosswalks and intersections. Over half of distracted walking injuries occur in our own homes, proving that we need to stay aware of our surroundings whether indoors and out.